Health NZ - Lakes

01/09/2026

Extra protection for our littlest: Free flu vaccines now available for under 5s

From today, all children aged 6 months up to their fifth birthday can get a free influenza (flu) vaccine.

This change comes as flu continues to cause high rates of illness and hospitalisations in young children this season, with children under five experiencing some of the highest rates of flu-related hospital care.

The flu season started later than usual and is expected to continue, so it's not too late to get vaccinated. The current flu vaccine is also a good match for the flu virus circulating most widely this year.

✅ Free for all children aged 6 months to under 5 years, pregnant women, and people aged 65+
✅ Helps protect against serious illness
✅ Helps protect your family and community.

The flu vaccine is also free for many people with certain medical conditions.

Book at bookmyvaccine.nz or contact your GP, pharmacy, Hauora Māori provider, Pacific health provider, or local immunisation clinic. Many providers also offer walk-in appointments.

30/08/2026

Flu just won't give up this winter! 🦠

And it's not too late to get protected. 🛡️

Immunisation can still help reduce your risk of serious illness as we head into spring. If you've already had one type of flu this season, vaccination may still be worthwhile, as it helps protect against multiple flu strains. It could help you avoid a second round!

Good news - your local pharmacy may be able to vaccinate you, often without an appointment. Many pharmacies offer convenient walk-in flu vaccination services and can help check whether you're up-to-date with other recommended vaccinations.

Have a chat with your local pharmacist today and find your nearest pharmacy on healthpoint.co.nz.

26/08/2026

The flu vaccine does more than help protect against flu.

Research shows it may also help reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. If you haven't had your flu vaccination yet, it's not too late. 💙

Getting vaccinated is easy. Talk to your usual GP clinic, Hauora Māori or Pacific health provider, or local pharmacist. You can also book through bookmyvaccine.nz. Sorted!

24/08/2026

Last week marked a significant milestone with the opening of Te Whare Oranga Tangata o Whakaue, our new mental health wellbeing and recovery unit. The purpose-built facility replaces the previous 45-year-old unit, providing a modern environment better suited to supporting recovery and wellbeing.

The day began with the opening and blessing led by Dr Anaha Hiini, before guests gathered for a pōhiri and formal opening ceremony. Students from Rotorua Primary School made a valuable contribution to the event, helping to welcome guests and support the proceedings.

The ribbon was officially cut by peer mentor Gavin Pike, consumer advisor Wi Huata and Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora Group Director Operations Alan Wilson, marking the completion of a significant investment in mental health care for the region.

📸by Stephen Parker.

21/08/2026

It's now FREE to book a video appointment with a NZ qualified Online GP for children under 14. Book via healthnz.govt.nz/OnlineGP and check out this video explanation about Online GP from one of our wonderful Community Paediatric Clinical Nurse Specialists.

20/08/2026

19/08/2026

Need care, but it's not an emergency?

If your health concern isn't life-threatening, there may be options that can help you get advice or treatment sooner than waiting in the Emergency Department (ED).

✅ Your GP or practice nurse
✅ Online GP (free for children under 14, subsidised for adults with a Community Services Card)
✅ Urgent care clinics
✅ Your local pharmacist, Some treatments are now funded through Extended Pharmacy Services for eligible people, at participating pharmacies
✅ Ka Ora Telecare for after-hours care in rural areas

Not sure where to start? Call Healthline on 0800 611 116. It's free, available 24/7, and can help guide you to the right service.

Learn more about your healthcare options at healthnz.govt.nz/GetHelp

In an emergency, always call 111 or go to the nearest Emergency Department.

18/08/2026

Need healthcare but not sure where to start?

If it's an emergency, the Emergency Department (ED) is the right place. But for many everyday health concerns, there may be other options that can help you sooner.

💻 Online GP (now FREE for under 14s)
📞 Healthline: 0800 611 116. There is a callback service if you don't want to wait on hold.
🏥 Urgent Care and After Hours clinics.
💊 Your local pharmacy. Under the Extended Pharmacy Service, some treatments are now free or lower cost. Call your local to find out.

ED teams prioritise the most seriously unwell patients first, so if your situation isn't an emergency, you may face a long wait.

Find the right care for your needs at healthnz.govt.nz/GetHelp

12/08/2026

Feeling unwell or hurt and can't see your usual doctor?

The Emergency Department (ED) isn’t always the best place for every situation, but it’s exactly where to go in an emergency.

Swipe through to find the right care for you.

Visit healthnz.govt.nz/GetHelp to find the right healthcare for your specific needs.

11/08/2026